Common Foot Pathologies

Ever wonder why your feet are killing you? Well, you are not alone. At least half of the population experiences some form of foot condition in their lives.

Here is a short list of the most common foot pathologies Podiatrists see in clinic.

• Plantar fasciitis: This is a condition that affects the tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, from the heel to the toes. It is often caused by overuse or overstretching of the tissue, and can cause pain and stiffness in the foot, especially when walking or standing.

• Bunions: This is a condition where the big toe becomes bent or misaligned, causing a bony bump to form at the base of the toe. Bunions can cause pain, swelling, and difficulty with movement of the toe.

• Hammertoe: This is a condition where one or more of the toes becomes bent or misaligned, causing them to resemble a hammer. Hammertoe can cause pain, stiffness, and difficulty with movement of the affected toes.

• Athlete's foot: This is a fungal infection that affects the skin on the feet, causing redness, itching, and flaking of the skin. It is often caused by damp or moist environments, such as public showers or pools, and can be treated with antifungal medication.

• Ingrown toenails: This is a condition where the edge of the toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, swelling, and infection. It is often caused by wearing shoes that are too tight or by improper nail trimming, and can be treated with proper nail care and in some cases, surgical removal of the ingrown part of the nail.

• Fungal toenails: Also known as onychomycosis, is a condition in which fungi infect one or more of the toenails. This can cause the nail to become thickened, discoloured, and brittle. It can also cause the nail to become distorted in shape and to separate from the nail bed. Fungal toenails are often caused by the same types of fungi that cause athlete's foot, and the infection can spread from the skin to the nails if it is not treated properly. Treatment for fungal toenails can include the use of antifungal medications, which may be applied directly to the nail or taken orally. Laser therapy is also an effective therapy. In severe cases, the affected nail may need to be removed.

DO YOU SUFFER FROM ANY OF THESE CONDITIONS?

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